How Often to Change Your Spark Plugs

One of the most common questions we’re asked by Providence drivers is, “When do I change spark plugs?” Whether you own a new or used vehicle, the general rule of thumb is every 30,000 miles. The distance interval can vary, however, depending on the way you drive your car. The best thing to do is to check your owner’s manual and then speak to a technician at our service center. For now, you can simply read on to learn more about how often to change spark plugs and signs they’re bad.

When to Replace Spark Plugs

What are spark plugs for and what is the purpose of the spark plug? Your car’s ignition can’t operate without spark plugs. What do spark plugs do? They send the voltage generated by the ignition coil to the combustion chamber, which ignites as you start the car.

What are spark plugs made of? Generally, the electrodes in a spark plug are made up of high-nickel alloys. The insulator usually consists of aluminum oxide ceramic. Its shell is usually comprised of steel wire.

Because your car can’t start without good spark plugs, you’ll notice right away if something is amiss. Here are a few signs replacements are needed:

• Misfiring engine: Worn spark plugs have a hard time generating the spark that starts the engine. If you try to start the car and it stalls, worn spark plugs could be to blame. The engine may also start slowly or fail to start at all.
• Rough noises during engine idling: Failing spark plugs may cause a rattling, pinging, or knock-like noise.
• Poor acceleration: If you have noticed that your car is less responsive, especially when you try to accelerate, old spark plugs may be the culprit.
• Decreased fuel economy: Have you been stopping at the gas station more often? It can actually be due to worn out spark plugs. Fuel consumption is increased because the vehicle cannot effectively burn the fuel that goes into the engine.
• Illuminated check engine light: If your check engine light is on, it could be due to a number of causes, but worn spark plugs or spark plug wires could be the issue.

Why Replace Your Spark Plugs?

Replacing your car’s spark plugs will help keep the engine in good shape. Additionally, you and your car will reap the following benefits:

• Higher Fuel Economy – If your car has a worn spark plug, fuel economy can be slashed by up to 30%. Replacing the plug can help restore your car’s efficiency.
• Dependable Combustion System – Spark plugs help keep combustion going, so your car runs reliably.
• Easy Engine Starts – After you replace your car’s spark plugs, you should notice an immediate difference. When spark plugs are working as they should, the engine will start right up.
• Reduced Harmful Emissions – Replacing old spark plugs can help control harmful emissions and give your car a fuel economy boost.

Rely on Mercedes-Benz of Warwick for Spark Plug Service!

Are you having problems starting your car and suspect the spark plugs are to blame? Schedule a service appointment at the Mercedes-Benz of Warwick service center near East Greenwich and Cranston. Don’t forget to browse our service specials and parts specials for coupons on Mercedes-Benz auto repair.

Would you like to learn more about caring for your Mercedes-Benz? Find out how to maximize your tire life, how to change a brake light, or learn about dashboard warning light meanings with our team.